Tile Calculator By MorbiTiles | Flooring & Bathroom Estimator

By D N Apps · April 17, 2025

Floor vs Wall Tiles

Published on March 20, 2025

By DN Apps

Floor vs Wall Tiles: Understanding the Differences

Tiles are a versatile and popular choice for both floors and walls, but not all tiles are created equal. Floor tiles and wall tiles serve distinct purposes, differing in design, durability, and installation requirements. Knowing these differences can help you choose the right tiles for your space.

1. Material and Durability

Floor tiles are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, weight, and wear. They are typically made from tougher materials like porcelain or thick ceramic, which offer greater durability and resistance to scratches. Wall tiles, on the other hand, don’t need to endure the same level of stress. They can be made from lighter materials like standard ceramic, glass, or even thinner porcelain, prioritizing aesthetics over strength.

2. Thickness and Weight

Floor tiles are generally thicker and heavier to provide stability and support underfoot. Their thickness, often ranging from 8mm to 12mm or more, helps prevent cracking when subjected to pressure. Wall tiles are thinner and lighter, usually around 6mm to 8mm, making them easier to install vertically without adding excessive weight to the structure.

3. Slip Resistance

Safety is a key consideration for floor tiles, especially in areas prone to water like bathrooms or kitchens. Floor tiles often feature textured or matte finishes to improve slip resistance, rated by a coefficient of friction (COF). Wall tiles don’t require this, so they’re often glossy or smooth, enhancing their visual appeal rather than grip.

4. Design and Finish

Wall tiles tend to focus on decorative elements, available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and finishes like glossy or metallic. They’re often used as accent pieces or to create feature walls. Floor tiles prioritize functionality, with more subdued designs, earthy tones, or patterns that hide dirt and wear. However, modern options blur these lines, offering stylish floor tiles too.

5. Installation Considerations

Installing floor tiles requires a strong, level subfloor and durable adhesives to handle constant pressure. Grout lines are often wider to accommodate movement and stress. Wall tile installation is less demanding, focusing on vertical adhesion and tighter grout lines for a seamless look. Cutting wall tiles is also easier due to their thinner profile.